Kim's trip to USA - September 2004

I started off by going to the Bahamas, which is only a short flight from Miami.   I over nighted in Miami and hired a convertible and drove down to Florida Keys which is a long but wonderful drive.  I stopped off at one of the many seaside resorts, which have bars and cafes that over looks the water, and basked in the hot sun with a glass of beer listening to a local band.  Next was a wonderful dinner at a Chilli Crab restaurant, which are very popular on the cost of California.  Something they should have a lot more of in Sydney.
 
Next day was off to Nassau, where I stayed at the Colonial Hilton, which is on the beach and is a short walk from the town centre and Senior Frogs!!!   Nassau is basically two main islands connected by a very large bridge that goes over to Paradise Island where you have the big new Atlantis Resort, which seems to tower over like a big red contemporary castle.    Nassau has a strong influence of the old Pirate days and the architecture is still very original especially down the main street.  The water was warm and crystal clear.  I recommend a day tour to the reef by way of high-speed boats where you can swim with ocean life.   Take a moment to enjoy the various types of Rum that can only be found in Nassau. 
 
The next highlight was driving up the California coast through Santa Barbara, Monterey and up to Sacramento, which is approximately 8 hours in total from LA.  Attached are some pictures of what you expect to see on the coast. The road winds very high up on the hill where you are constantly getting panoramic views of the wonderful rugged cliffs.
 
Santa Barbara is like 'Beverly Hills on the beach' and has a very relaxed atmosphere.  The many open-air cafes and restaurants are classy, very buzzy and set the scene for a short visit. 

Monterey is also a coastal town and seems to be a favourite place for many Californians'. The town dates back to the old Whaling and Sardine industry and you will find a wonderful large aquarium which is a must and has a wonderful section on the Sea Otters where the only thing that separates you from their whiskers and wet kisses, is the glass. 
 
The next town visited was Sacramento, which is slightly inland.  Sacramento is also known for "Old Sacramento" which is an old town, special for its original architecture and influence of the gold rush era back in the 1800's.   The day I visited had a Gold Rush re-enactment where you found old stagecoaches and wagons being drawn by horses around the town. All the locals were in traditional saloon costumes that set the scene of an old western movie.    "A time-warp" you could not help but feel!!  

Finally, the Island of Catalina is a must for tourists.   Catalina is an island about 40mins by water launch from Newport (which is a lovely seaside town with a large marina and beach side esplanade).   Catalina is a wonderful day trip, but can be visited overnight.  The town has a strong Mexican feel, and has a lot to offer in the way of activities.  ie Kayaking down the rugged coastline, wild life tours and other various day tours for everyone.